Understanding Turkish Students’ STEM Career Aspirations, STEM Hopes and Goals, Parental Perception, and Cultural Capital: A Path Analysis

Abstract

Developing students' career goals in the fields of science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) is a high priority in Turkey and around the world. Many educational investments are being made in the country, and this is shown in the development goals. It is important to understand the variables that may be related to these goals in order to best support students on their career path. This study examined the relationship between STEM career aspirations, hopes and goals in STEM, cultural capital, and perceived parental expectations in a Turkish sample (n = 633). The findings showed that there were positive relationships between STEM cultural capital, perceived parental support, and STEM-related hopes and goals. In addition, parental perception influenced STEM career aspirations both directly and indirectly. In the research model, the greatest effect was found to be between parental support and STEM hopes and goals. These discoveries provide insight for educational policymakers, parents, and teachers who are helping students develop STEM career aspirations.